IDEAL DRINK

PRICE

One of the few elevators in Melbourne with its own security team, the entrance for Naked in the Sky is hot property no matter what the season. Over the summer months gaining entry is a crowning achievement, so get there early to maximise sunset time with minimal disappointment.

The joy of being so high is such a natural pleasure. From the balcony of Naked in the Sky, fill your lungs with the clean air Fitzroy never thought it had and take in the lay of the land. It’s a refreshing escape from all the sirens and exhaust fumes of Johnston Street, while still maintaining prime position to watch a night of Brunswick Street fun unfold.

The top-floor bar is cleverly divided into an indoor dining space and an outdoor drinking area. The partly-sheltered balcony loops the rooftop, making it a revolving conveyor belt of Fitzroy’s hip crowd, primed for people watching. The panoramic terrace ensures a visually pleasing view from any perch, whether it is the tower-studded skyline to the south, down to Clifton Hill to the north or east up to the Kew hills. The exposed brick facade, with lanterns strung up high between the gables, gives the air of a Spanish fiesta — perfect for both a troop of 20 or an intimate affair with a backdrop of city lights.

A selection of Spanish and Australian boutique beers sit along the 15-metre bar, as well as those brewed exclusively for Naked consumption. True to its origins there is also an extensive selection of house-infused vodkas such as Naked Bitch Chilli & Cherry, the Opium & Rose or the Alpine Chocolate & Sugarcane. To compliment your drinks is a sumptuous menu that puts ground level bar food to shame. Try the crumbed eggplant with honey and blue cheese ($9) or the meatballs in a cherry and thyme sauce ($14).

The dining area offers a selection of Basque-inspired peasant comfort food, although there is nothing peasant about dishes such as the pan seared quail with pancetta and mushrooms ($16).

Much like distilling batches of clandestine vodka, it can get pretty hot up there in the sky, although — despite the name — getting naked is not encouraged. Best save that for later on in the night.